A recipe from an Amish cookbook

and a short story.

Many, many years ago when we lived in West Milford, NJ, we took a trip to visit an Amish community in Pennsylvania.  We were awestruck by the beauty, friendliness and simplicity of their life. But one of the things that most fascinated us was that early one morning we witnessed a group of men surrounding a pile of lumber on a vacant lot. Hours later after many tours around their community as we ventured back to our hotel we passed by the site and were astonished to see a totally completed large barn on what earlier in the day vacant land.  A good lesson for all of us but especially for our children in what working together can accomplish.  Following is a modified recipe from an Amish cookbook I purchased.

I say modified because some of the recipe ingredients such as cow’s milk or fresh churned butter are not readily available for us today!

PREHEAT OVEN TO 400º

9×5 – INCH LOAF PAN SPRAYED

3/4 CUP CORNMEAL

1 CUP ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR

2 1/2 TABLESPOONS GRANULATED SUGAR

1 TEASPOON BAKING SODA

1 TEASPOON CREAM OF TARTAR

PINCH OF SALT – to taste

1 CUP SOUR CREAM – not low-fat

1 LARGE EGG, BEATEN

2 TABLESPOONS BUTTER – melted

1/4 CUP MILK – not 2% or low-fat

DIRECTIONS

Add all the dry ingredients (cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking soda, cream of tartar and salt)  in a large bowl and mix well using a whisk. Add wet ingredients (sour cream, egg, butter and milk), using a spoon, mix until just blended being careful to not over mix. Pour batter into baking pan and spread evenly using your spatula.

Bake on middle rack of oven for 25to 35 minutes.  Cover lightly with film if getting too brown before being done. Check the bread using a toothpick or thermometer in the center, making sure it comes out clean. Remove from oven, allow to cool for 10 minutes then  loosen edges, if necessary, and remove from pan. 

NOTE: for the cornmeal you can use fine or medium-ground, whatever you have handy . You can heat up slices in the microwave for a few seconds. Deliciously served with butter, jelly and even honey.

BUON MANGIATA!

The Amish are a traditionalist Anabaptist Christian group known for their simple lifestyle, plain clothing, and separation from the outside world. They originated in Europe during the 17th century and migrated to North America, primarily settling in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. They are a subgroup of the larger Anabaptist movement, which also includes the Mennonites. They trace their roots to the teachings of Jakob Ammann, who emphasized strict adherence to traditional Anabaptist practices. 

Primary beliefs include adult baptism, Pacifism and separation of church and state, importance of community, a commitment to a simple life and separation from modern conveniences.

Summarized their lifestyle is characterized by a commitment to simplicity, humility, and community values. Amish clothing is often handmade and reflects their values of modesty and simplicity. Men typically wear dark suits, broad-brimmed hats, and plain shirts, while women wear long dresses with bonnets and head coverings. Bright colors are generally avoided, with darker shades being more common.

The use of horse-drawn buggies is not just a mode of transportation but also a symbol of their commitment to a lifestyle that avoids modern technology. Each community may have its own specific style of buggy, often decorated in unique ways.

The emphasis on family results in larger households, often with many children. Community gatherings, such as church services held in homes and barn raisings, reinforce social bonds and support systems. 

Many Amish engage in farming, but their trades also include woodworking, quilting, and other crafts. They often sell their goods at local markets or roadside stands, maintaining a strong connection to their agricultural roots.

Education in Amish communities is usually provided in one-room schoolhouses, ending at the eighth grade. The focus is on practical skills and values rather than higher academic achievement. This limited education is intended to prepare children for their roles in the community.

While the Amish do have some interaction with the outside world, it is generally limited. They seek to maintain their cultural identity and often avoid modern conveniences that they feel could disrupt their way of life. Some communities may be more open to certain technologies, while others may reject them entirely.

Overall, the Amish way of life is a fascinating example of a community that prioritizes tradition, simplicity, and a close-knit social structure.

ORA LO SAI!

Now you know.